Financial Wellness Workshop Empowers Stony Brook Students to Navigate Money with Confidence

Talking about money can be uncomfortable - and for many students, it's something that can cause anxiety, stress and even resentment. But, by learning a few tips and tricks to create a budget and manage finances, some of those feelings can be managed.

That is exactly what inspired a team at the Career Center, headed by Campus Internship Manager Amy Paulino, to launch the Financial Wellness Workshop. It is a new initiative at Stony Brook University designed to help students build confidence, skills and awareness around their financial lives.

The program, developed in collaboration with Financial Aid and supported by student interns, reframes traditional financial literacy education through a wellness lens. It has been officially named Seawolves Financial Gameplan, to emphasize how impactful having basic planning and understanding of money can be; not just for right now, but beyond.

"Instead of calling it financial literacy, which can feel intimidating, we intentionally use the term financial wellness," Paulino explained. "Wellness is something students already connect with, and financial wellness is one of the eight dimensions of health."

Before launching the workshop, Paulino worked closely with the Office of Financial Aid to ensure messaging aligned with existing resources, including the Money Smart Seawolvesprogram. "It was important not to duplicate efforts or send mixed messages," she said. "This really is a collaborative approach."

Four Workshops, One Holistic Approach

Working alongside three student interns through the Empire State Service Corps- a SUNY initiative focused on student success and peer coaching - Paulino helped design a four-part workshop series based on what students said they wanted and needed most.

The series begins with Budgeting Basics, covering foundational concepts such as net versus gross income, budgeting strategies, credit cards and tools like high-yield savings accounts. The session also introduces campus-specific resources, including the Internship Equity Fund, which provides financial support to students participating in unpaid, credit-bearing internships and research opportunities.

"Students shouldn't have to choose between gaining career experience and meeting their basic financial needs," Paulino said, reflecting on their own experience balancing work and finances as a student.

The second workshop, Emergency Fund Starters, focuses on building financial resilience. "It's not about if an emergency will happen, but when," Paulino noted. She took the time to explain to students that even small, consistent contributions - such as setting aside a few dollars each week - can make a meaningful difference over time.

The third workshop addresses Credit Card Essentials, covering how credit works, why it matters and how it can impact future goals such as buying a car, renting an apartment or even employment opportunities. While emphasizing that the program does not offer financial advice, Paulino provides students with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

The final session, Money and Mindset, explores the emotional and psychological side of finances. Topics include financial trauma, social comparison and navigating campus life among peers from vastly different socioeconomic backgrounds. "This is often the first time students are surrounded by so many people with different financial realities," Paulino said. "That can be really challenging if no one is talking about it."

Honest Conversations and Meaningful Impact

One of the most impactful elements of the workshops, according to Paulino, has been vulnerability. By sharing personal experiences - including student loans, family dynamics around money, and lessons learned - they create space for students to open up as well.

"Students are talking about money in ways they never have before," Paulino said. "That alone is a huge step forward."

Feedback from students has been largely positive, with many reporting tangible changes such as starting a budget or opening their first emergency fund. Pre- and post-surveys help measure these outcomes and track shifts in financial confidence and awareness.

At the same time, Paulino welcomes constructive feedback. Some students noted that popular budgeting models don't always apply to every situation, especially for those without steady income. "That feedback is important," she said. "It reminds us that financial wellness isn't one-size-fits-all."

Growing Demand and Future Plans

Interest in the program has exceeded expectations, with more than 100 students registering for each workshop. Originally planned as an in-person series, sessions quickly expanded to include virtual options to accommodate demand.

To improve accessibility and equity, the team is developing a Brightspace course where students can access workshop materials if they're unable to attend live sessions. Plans for a dedicated website and FAQ resource are also underway as the program continues to grow.

As an added incentive, students who complete all four workshops and all surveys receive a graduation cord, reinforcing the program's emphasis on long-term impact rather than quick fixes.

"This information isn't meant to convince students to do anything," Paulino said. "It's about giving them tools - tools they can use now or later - that align with their goals and support their overall health."

The Financial Wellness Workshop will continue to be offered every semester, ensuring that more students have the opportunity to build a healthier, more informed relationship with money.

- Emily Cappiello